QAZAQ GREEN. Kazakh startup HydroTech, supported by the International Green Technologies and Investment Projects Center, has ranked among the top three at the global finals of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme and received the “Special Recognition: Youth Leadership” award at Cleantech Days 2026 in Vienna.

Founded by Dana Kadyrbek, the project represents a new generation of climate-focused entrepreneurs. She presented the solution on international platforms alongside global experts and senior policymakers.

HydroTech has developed a technology that generates drinking water from air using solar energy. The solution targets regions facing water scarcity and addresses key challenges linked to climate change.

As part of the official programme, Kadyrbek also spoke at the Vienna Energy and Climate Forum during the plenary session on resilient technologies and infrastructure, presenting the project alongside ministers and international experts.

The GCIP 2026 global finals took place in Vienna from April 7 to 10 under the auspices of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, with support from the Global Environment Facility, bringing together investors, innovators, and climate technology leaders from around the world.

Kazakhstan was represented by three startups selected from 51 projects in the national GCIP 2025 round: HydroTech, Forest Hero, and SpaceLab.

HydroTech’s top-three finish and international recognition underscore the growing potential of Kazakh climate innovation and reinforce the country’s position in the global clean technology landscape. Kazakhstan joined the GCIP initiative in 2022, becoming the first country in Central Asia to participate.